Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)

RangeUsually found near water. Found throughout North America during migration, and many areas in summer. Most of the population migrates south for the winter, but a few birds remain along the Gulf Coast and southern Florida.

SizeLength 21-23 inchesWingspan 59-71 inchesWeight 49-71 ounces

HabitatClose to water. In Virginia, usually over salt water bays or coves, occasionally near fresh water lakes with an abundance of fish.

DietLive fish.

CharacteristicsCommon along Chesapeake Bay. Highly social, competitive when it comes to food. Often nests on navigational markers in salt water areas, on a platform above water. Nonslip tubercules on feet; only hawk with two toes forward and two toes backward. Dense, long and oily feathering, long legs. Long small intestine for digesting fish scales and bones. Very uncooperative rehabilitation patient; usually not self-feeding.